Mr Foster, an uncle of DUP Minister for Enterprise Arlene Foster was also a former chairman of Fermanagh District Council. He was in the Ulster Special Constabulary and a major in the Ulster Defence Regiment. He was a senior Orangeman.

Mr Foster is survived by his widow, Dorothy, daughter, Helen, sons, Mervyn and David, and grandchildren.

“It is well-known that Sammy and I didn’t always agree on the direction of unionism post the Belfast Agreement, but we did, especially in later years, realise the importance of family,” Ms Foster said.

UUP leader Mike Nesbitt said Mr Foster was a “huge figure” in unionism.

Sinn Féin Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness said: “Despite our obvious political differences, I found him to be courteous, decent and conscientious at all times.” Alliance leader David Ford said Mr Foster was a “true gentleman” who was committed to the restoration of devolution.